Kavaliro Blog

Negotiating Your Salary

As recent grads begin to enter the workforce, many are neglecting to negotiate salary requirements. Although it may seem intimidating, new grads should think about asking for more money upon their first job offer. Kavaliro’s Kelly Babb was recently on FOX 35’s Good Day Orlando to share some tips on how to go about asking for more. Check out these top steps on how to approach it the right way.

Step One: Know the Facts

It is important to know how much you want to make at your new job. However, it’s more important to know how much you are worth. Be sure to research this by looking up salary ranges for your area and your position. Check out Kavaliro’s Employment Guide or Glassdoor – these resources offer plenty of guidance for research. If possible, know the ranges of pay each company offers.

Step Two: Time Your Request Perfectly

Be sure to resist the urge to talk about the salary and benefits during the interview process. It can leave a negative impression with the interviewer. Instead, show your value during your time with them. If you are asked about what kind of salary you are looking to make, show what you know by offering the market salary range found in your research.

Step Three: Look At the Entire Package

Remember, salary is not everything. There is a lot more to a job than the money you are going to make. There are the regular benefits like insurance, 401k contributions and vacation time. Also think about the kind of skills you might learn by working for this company. Realize this job may have the potential to impact your future career. Choosing a first job right after college is likely just the beginning of a long career in that industry. That being said, have enough time to think everything through.

Step Four: Remember it’s a Negotiation, Not a Battle

If you are at the point of a salary negotiation, it’s because both you and the employer are interested in moving forward. You do not need to make it into a fight. You both want the same thing, just figure out the terms to make it happen. Present what it is you are looking for and give them the chance to respond. This is best done in-person so that nothing gets lost in translation.

Remember that even if you are fresh out of school, you are still of value to companies looking for fresh and determined employees. While you might be of value to these companies, keep in mind you still have a lot to learn. If you can keep your confidence between those two things, companies will be more likely to meet your expectations.

Kavaliro Employment Agency has offices in Tampa, Fla., Charlotte, N.C., Orlando, Fla., Washington, D.C., Jacksonville, Fla. and Petaluma, Ca. and can make sure you find the right people for any important role. We are ready and waiting to help you anytime and look forward to hearing from you.